Chris

[needhonesthelp]

I haven't seen you post for a little while when I asked a couple questions a few days ago.  Teak has already given me his educated response and I do appreciate that.  I would like to hear your thoughts to.  

I recently had a 3 month (almost to the day) antibody test and it was negative.  I've had antibody tests at 2,4,9, and 13 weeks...all neg.  In addition, I had the RNA PCR tests at 2 and 9 weeks.  Both of these were undetecable <48 c.  Do you think there is any chance that I would all of sudden test positve at 4, 5, 6 mos...etc??  

The main concern is the CDC still says 6 mos conclusive and so does my doc.  Teak has been clear that 3 mos is conclusive but why do some people take longer than 3 mos then.  It must happen...obviously I don't want this to happen but do appreciate your thoughts too.  Both of you give me the hope I need.  I look forward to your honest thoughts.  

[Teak]

This exactly what I mean Chris. The CDC does NOT say 6 months is conclusive and if your doctor says that, he's as uneducated about HIV and testing as you are.

[needhonesthelp]

Teak, I read on their site and spoke to someone at the CDC that says 6 mos.  They say most will test positive within 3 mos...97%.  Some take up to 6 mos.  If this isn't true, they need to change the website and teach the people that work there the new guidelines.  Again, i'm not looking to question your educated thoughts.  I just can't figure out why you say the CDC says 3 mos.  97% is not conclusive.  100% or 99.99999% is conclusive.

[needhonesthelp]

This is the exact quote from the CDC that everyone uses.  97% w/in 3 mos.  They don't say anything about the reason some take longer is due to cancer, iv drug use.  Clearly there must be some people that take 4-6 mos too.

It can take some time for the immune system to produce enough antibodies for the antibody test to detect, and this time period can vary from person to person. This time period is commonly referred to as the “window period.” Most people will develop detectable antibodies within 2 to 8 weeks (the average is 25 days). Even so, there is a chance that some individuals will take longer to develop detectable antibodies. Therefore, if the initial negative HIV test was conducted within the first 3 months after possible exposure, repeat testing should be considered >3 months after the exposure occurred to account for the possibility of a false-negative result. Ninety-seven percent of persons will develop antibodies in the first 3 months following the time of their infection. In very rare cases, it can take up to 6 months to develop antibodies to HIV.

[Teak]

Here is the The most recent training manual for counseling provided by the CDC.

http://www.cdc.gov/nchstp/od/gap/pmtct/Trainer%20Manual/Adobe/Module_6TM.pdf

Describe the five main steps in HIV testing. Explain that, regardless of the type of test, these steps are followed:

Page 11. #4

This supercedes anything else on testing that you can find on the CDC's website. This is the manual instructors are given.

[needhonesthelp]

I do see that section and they clearly state most test pos at 4-6 weeks... a neg test should be reconfirmed at 3 mos to make sure.

It seems odd that their website still say 6 mos.  Maybe my doc is being extra carefult too...I don't know.  Since I work in the healthcare industry and had an exposure at work, their protocols still say have a 6 mo test to close the chapter forever.  Maybe it is just reassurance or old guidelines.

Do you know much about Hep C.  I tested neg at 3 mos too and my liver function is normal.  I was just curious because clear window periods are hard to find on HCV.

I do appreciate you forwarding this to me.  I suppose I do need to move on...follow the protocol and get tested at 6 mos because that is what they recommend but assume I am fine.  I hope I not an unlucky stat.  I feel like I have been tested so much that the ladies at Labcorp and Quest think I'm their buddy.  It is getting a little crazy.

[needhonesthelp]

Thanks man, I do really hope you and Teak are 100% right.  I'm certain you guys mean well.  The main concern in my mind is that my wife was to start trying for a 3rd baby and I just get sick thinking about infecting her or an innocent child.  The last 3 mos have been so emotional for me and I'm not a very emotional guy.  In fact, I feel like I'm paranoid about everything related to my health now.  I went to the ENT doc to get an allergy test and started questioning their techinique...what the heck is wrong w/ me.  i'm losing my fricking mind.

You guys have a great weekend!  Take care

[needhonesthelp]

Thanks Bro!